Rambling free of Technology

October 9, 2016

Seattle Homeless – pending Open Camping Problem

I usually do not use my blog for commentary on issues beyond nature. Today I am compelled to write a bit about the new ordinance that is pending in Seattle. The city council for some reason thinks that homeless should be able to camp on city grounds. That we would not be able to evict them for days or until other shelter is found.

On the surface this seems a logical thing to house the growing homeless population we in Seattle have. This is a real problem in our society. However, I DO NOT AGREE with this. Here is why in a few pictures.

Trash from homeless in Herring House Park

I ramble in City parks often going a bit into the unimproved areas to find the best nature moments. For me that little bit of off the beaten trail peace and quiet feeds my soul. In my rambling I have encountered homelessness and the mess that they generate in our parks.

This is now when it is not legal for them to camp in the parks. Imagine what it would be like if they can legally camp in Lincoln, Westcrest, Fauntleroy, Discovery, Seward Parks? I carry mace due to my concern in general but this would make me more fearful of using the city’s gorgeous parks. They would become trashed and full of people who do not respect nature. Many of them are trying to beat out a living but a lot are drug addicts and mentally impaired. Do we want our children to encounter that and think of fear when they go to the park?

Please JUST SAY NO to this ordinance. We need to find another way to help these folks. I leave you with just some of the things I have found. Do we want more of this?